Man sentenced for being drunk in charge at quarry

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 11 Oct, 06:43 · Archive

Adam Steel, 43, was found unresponsive in his car at a quarry after police received concerns for his welfare.

Adam Steel, 43, was found unresponsive in his Volkswagen at Hodge Close Quarry near Coniston on the evening of 21 June. Police attended after receiving a call from his sister expressing concerns for his welfare. His car was parked in darkness next to warning signs for sudden drops and deep water. Police deemed him a suicide risk.

When officers approached, Steel's keys were still in the ignition. He refused to unlock the door or put the clutch down. An officer reached through the window to prevent him from driving further. The court heard that an officer had to strike Steel to stun him and then produce a taser to prevent any potential harm. He was then breathalysed and taken to the police station.

Steel provided a breath reading of 146 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood, significantly above the legal drink-driving limit of 80 milligrams. He pleaded guilty at the first opportunity to being drunk in charge of a motor vehicle. His solicitor, Trystan Roberts, told South Cumbria Magistrates' Court that Steel had consumed alcohol after arriving at the quarry, not while driving. Roberts said Steel had no intention of driving again and was experiencing difficulties in his personal life and mental health at the time.

How it is being reported

• Driver found drunk in his car at quarry after police feared he was at risk of suicideA MOTORIST believed to be at risk of committing suicide has been sentenced for being drunk in charge of his vehicle.NW Evening Mail · 11 Oct, 06:00
• Driver found drunk in his car at quarry after police feared he was at risk of suicideA MOTORIST believed to be at risk of committing suicide has been sentenced for being drunk in charge of his vehicle.Westmorland Gazette · 11 Oct, 06:00

In this story: Adam Steel · South Cumbria Magistrates' Court · Hodge Close Quarry · Coniston · Ulverston

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem